One of the last Australians to be killed in the First World War was 21-year-old Captain Thomas Baker, a pilot in the Australian Flying Corps, who was shot down over the Western Front days before the war ended.
A highly decorated flying ace, Baker is remembered as being highly skilled, determined and courageous. Countless Australian airman and aircraftman in the First World War displayed those same characteristics, laying the foundation for Australia’s proud military aviation history.
The proud history forged by those first aviators was built upon during the Second World War, when the battle for the skies was a battle for supremacy. Some of our aviators in the Second World War faced dreadful odds of survival, yet, like those who came before them, they served with the utmost skill, determination and courage.
An aviator who served with Number 1 Squadron during the Second World War spoke of this courage:
“A special bravery seemed to be generated, where fear was greatest ... The courage that we saw was in the calm before the storm, of very young men ... doing something that petrified them ... But they did it because it was their duty.”
The character of our aviators in the First and Second World Wars has shaped the character of our aviators who have worn our uniform since, including those of us who wear it today.
Across the world, members of the Royal Australian Air Force, both on the ground and in the air, are known for their skill, dedication and courage.
This Anzac Day, we remember the more than 103,000 Australians who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country, including the almost 10,000 aviators from our Air Force. We also remember their families and the pain they endured.
For some, our family, friends or colleagues may have lost their life in service to Australia. Anzac Day is an opportunity to reflect and remember the service and sacrifice of all aviators, past and present, including your own.
We honour the sacrifices of our service personnel with an unwavering commitment to peace, and by working with allies and partners to deter future conflict.
Lest we forget.